Cloudy or Blurry Vision? What to Know About Cataracts
Cloudy or Blurry Vision? What to Know About Cataracts
If your vision is starting to look cloudy or dim, you might assume it’s just part of getting older. You’re not wrong. But one of the most common causes is a very specific one: cataracts.
Cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens, develop gradually and become more common with age—especially after 65. You’ll need to get surgery to fix them, but not right away. It all depends on how your vision is affecting your daily life.
Theresa Long, MD, an ophthalmologist at the John A. Moran Eye Center, says timing is one of the most common questions patients have.
“We don’t treat cataracts based on what we see—we treat them based on how they impact your daily activities,” Long says.
What Cataracts Actually Do to Your Vision
A cataract forms when the normally clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy. Instead of passing through cleanly, the light gets scattered.
People often describe it like looking through a foggy windshield. Colors may appear duller, and lights can seem too bright or glaring, especially at night.
“A lot of patients don’t realize how much their vision has changed until it starts affecting everyday activities,” says Long.
Who Gets Cataracts?
Every human and even animals develop cataracts with age. They can occur in one or both eyes.
Lifestyle and health conditions, like UV exposure, smoking, and diabetes, can influence how early cataracts develop or how quickly they progress.
Signs It May Be Time For Cataract Surgery
Cataracts don’t need to be removed just because they’re there. Long recommends surgery when your vision starts interfering with the things you want or need to do.
That might include trouble driving at night, difficulty reading, struggling to recognize faces, or needing more light to see clearly.
“If it’s affecting your quality of life, that’s when we start talking about surgery,” Long says.
What to Expect from Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest procedures performed today.
During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens. It usually takes about 10–15 minutes, and most patients go home the same day.
Many people notice improved vision within a few days—sometimes even within 24 hours.
“Patients are often surprised by how quick the procedure is and how much their vision improves,” says Long.
New Lens Options Make Your Best Vision Possible
Today’s cataract surgery offers more than just clearer vision. Many patients can also reduce their need for glasses depending on the type of intraocular lens they choose.
Options may include lenses that correct distance and near vision, or astigmatism. Some newer technologies—like light adjustable lenses—allow your surgeon to fine-tune your vision after surgery based on how your eyes heal and your preferences.
“We can customize vision in ways we couldn’t before,” says Long. “It’s important to talk through your goals so we can choose the right lens for you.”
Healthy Habits May Help Reduce The Risk of Cataracts
You can’t completely prevent cataracts, but you can take steps to help delay them.
Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses and a hat outdoors, avoiding smoking, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular eye exams.
“Healthy habits can help your eyes stay healthier longer,” Long says.
If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, don’t wait to get it checked. An eye exam at the Moran Eye Center can help identify cataracts and other vision concerns early.
Learn More From Our Specialists
What to Know About Cataracts and Your Lens Options Before Surgery
Blurry vision, glare around headlights, and duller colors are classic signs of cataracts. Learn what cataracts are, how UV exposure accelerates them, and how to choose between the lens options available to you.
Cataracts Prevention, Causes, and Treatments
Cataracts are a leading cause of vision impairment, but the good news is that they are treatable. Learn how cataracts affect vision, what factors contribute to their formation, and what you can do to protect your eyes.
